Describe two factors that may contribute to the extinction of a species.

Two factors that may contribute to the extinction of a species are habitat destruction and climate change.

1. Habitat Destruction: One of the primary factors leading to species extinction is the loss or degradation of their natural habitats. This can occur through deforestation, urbanization, agriculture expansion, mining, and infrastructure development. When a species loses the environment it relies on for food, shelter, and breeding, its chances of survival diminish significantly. Habitat fragmentation also plays a role, as it can isolate populations, reduce genetic diversity, and make it more difficult for species to adapt to changing conditions or recover from population declines.

2. Climate Change: Climate change is another critical factor that can lead to species extinction. As global temperatures rise, weather patterns shift, and sea levels increase, the natural habitats of many species are altered or destroyed. Some species may not be able to adapt quickly enough to the changing conditions, particularly those with limited ranges or specialized habitat requirements. Changes in temperature and precipitation can affect food availability, breeding cycles, and migration patterns, leading to population declines and increased vulnerability to extinction. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, can also have immediate and devastating impacts on species and ecosystems.